Knowing the importance of language

Having arrived in New Zealand as a 17-year-old knowing very little English, Maturo Siaosi knows the importance of language.

A couple of decades on, Siaosi remains in Timaru, and uses his first language Samoan every day as he teaches it to his children.

He is proud of his culture and language, and is excited to share that with the community, especially this week.

Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa – Samoa Language Week 2023 began yesterday and runs until Saturday.

This year’s theme is ‘‘Mitamita i lau gagana, maua’a lou fa’asinomaga’’ which means ‘Be proud of your language and grounded in your identity’.

‘‘That’s definitely something I am – proud,’’ Siaosi said.

This year’s theme focused on the importance of language